What is a Cooperative School?
A True School Community
Hobson School is a parent cooperative, which means families are active participants in their child’s early education—not just observers.
This shared involvement is what makes Hobson unique. Working together, families build relationships with each other while caring for our school.
Each Hobson family contributes in meaningful ways…
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Cooperative Role
One parent from each family serves on a committee that supports the operation of the school.
Approximately 20 hours per year
Parents may request committees of interest
Some roles are elected, others assigned based on preference
Families with multiple children only serve on one committee
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Classroom Participation
Parents and caregivers volunteer in the classroom supporting teachers and engaging with students.
Approximately once every 4–6 weeks
Help prepare and serve snack
Enjoy play and time in nature
Special opportunities to create lasting memories with your child
Build meaningful connections with your child's teachers and classmates
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School Support
Families support school events and the school building and grounds throughout the year.
One volunteer shift (2 hours) at a school event, alongside other families
One parent work day per year, helping care for the school building and grounds
Purchase two tickets to the annual Spring Social, a community event including dinner, auctions, and fundraising
Cooperative Model FAQs
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As a cooperative, parents have the opportunity to be involved firsthand in the life of the school. Every role—big or small—supports the experience we create for our children.
Working together, families:
Build strong relationships with one another
Support teachers and classrooms
Help maintain and grow the school community
This involvement creates a connected, supportive environment where children thrive.
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We know families are busy. Cooperative participation is designed to be:
Structured — clear expectations and defined roles
Shared — responsibilities are distributed across all families
Manageable — time commitments are predictable throughout the year
Many families find that their involvement becomes one of the most meaningful parts of their Hobson experience.
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While the whole family is welcome at many Hobson events and celebrations, classroom volunteer days are a special opportunity to connect with your child and be immersed in their classroom experience. To help maintain a consistent environment, and comply with state licensing requirements, younger siblings are not allowed to attend during volunteer time. We know every family’s circumstances are different, and many Hobson families work together, share ideas, and find creative solutions to make participation possible. If you have questions or concerns, we invite you to schedule a tour and ask about how families have successfully made this commitment work for them.
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We understand that work schedules and family responsibilities can change. Cooperative participation is designed with flexibility in mind, with opportunities planned in advance and responsibilities shared among families. Hobson has clear procedures for creating volunteer schedules and for navigating unexpected situations, such as illness or last-minute changes. Many Hobson families work together to find solutions, swap support when needed, and make their involvement work within their unique circumstances. Don’t let your concern hold you back - schedule a tour to learn more!
Hobson School is a proud member of the Parent Cooperative Preschools International (PCPI), an organization dedicated to supporting cooperative early childhood education around the world.
Through PCPI, Hobson is connected to a broader network of cooperative schools that share best practices, resources, and a commitment to family involvement in early learning. Our Executive Director and staff regularly participate in conferences and professional development opportunities through PCPI to bring back new ideas and help our cooperative community continue to grow and thrive.
